Qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemical components in Eupatorium lindleyanum DC. by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry integrated with anti-inflammatory activity research

As a traditional Chinese medicine, Eupatorium lindleyanum DC. has an effect on resolving phlegm, relieving cough, and relieving asthma. In this study, an ultra high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry method was established for qualitative analysis of Eupatorium lindleyanum. Besides, we developed an ultra high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry method in positive and negative multiple reaction monitor modes for the quantitative analysis of 27 chemical constituents from 19 different batches of Eupatorium lindleyanum. The methodology validated linearity, intraday and interday precision, stability, repeatability, and recovery. The results showed that there were some differences in different batches of Eupatorium lindleyanum, which might be attributed to the influence of different growth environments and climatic conditions on the accumulation of compounds. The variable importance of projection value of orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis and anti-inflammatory activity test showed that eupalinolide A, B, C, and K have high content and strong activity, which could provide a reference for the follow-up study of the quality markers of Eupatorium lindleyanum. Collectively, we developed a rapid and efficient method for the qualitative analysis and simultaneous quantification of Eupatorium lindleyanum, which was beneficial for the comprehensive utilization and development of resources.